What is a biodigester and its uses – PublicoGT

Omar Marroquín Pacheco

Biodigesters are devices that allow the decomposition of matter
organic through the action of bacteria in the absence of oxygen. These systems
are capable of producing both organic fertilizer and methane gas, providing
both environmental and economic benefits.

1. Fertilizer production: Biodigesters decompose matter
   organic, such as animal manure, crop residues, food scraps,
   among others, through a process called anaerobic digestion. During this
   process, a residue called “digestate” or “biol” is produced, which is a
   organic fertilizer rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. This
   digestate can be used as natural fertilizer to improve quality
   of the soil and promote plant growth, thereby reducing the
   need for chemical fertilizers.
2. Production of methane gas: The main product of the biodigester is the gas
   methane, also known as biogas. Biogas is a mixture of methane
   and carbon dioxide, along with other gases in smaller proportions. methane
   It is a flammable gas that can be used as an energy source
   renewable. Can be used to generate electricity, heat or fuel
   to cook. The biogas produced in biodigesters reduces dependence
   of fossil fuels and contributes to the reduction of emissions
   greenhouse gases.
3. Uses of biogas: Biogas can be used in different ways, depending on
   the needs and available resources:
   ● Electricity generation: Biogas can be used in engines
   power generation to produce electricity. This electricity
   can be used on farms, rural communities or even
   injected into the electrical grid.
   ● Heat generation: Biogas can be burned directly to
   generate heat, which can be used to heat water, heating
   of buildings, drying of agricultural products, among other uses.
   ● Cooking fuel: Biogas can be used as a
   clean alternative to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking in
   homes or restaurants. This reduces dependence on firewood and the use
   of fossil fuels.
   ● Biomethane production: Biogas can be purified and refined
   to obtain high quality biomethane, which is practically identical
   to natural gas. Biomethane can be injected into the natural gas network
   or used as fuel for vehicles.

Biodigesters are a versatile technology that takes advantage of organic matter
to produce organic fertilizer and biogas.
These products offer a sustainable and renewable alternative for agriculture,
energy generation and domestic use, contributing to the reduction of
pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.